Telegraph expert’s rating: 8/10

This small immaculate chalet, nestling in dunes besides miles of sandy beach, offers plenty for an active family beach holiday. Surfers ride the waves from dawn to dusk while families enjoy the rock pools, swimming pools and caverns left by the tide. This unspoilt area of a coast and adjacent marshland is rich in wildlife, all within a few miles of the cultural town of St Ives. Sleeps 8 in 3 bedrooms.

Location: 9/10

Ty Bach Twt is the final house in a cluster of chalet bungalows that have long sheltered in the marram grass clinging to the sand dunes that overlook this vast beach. With dramatic storms, sublime sunsets, fresh winds and scorching summer days, nature is on the doorstep and the elements make themselves known. The coastal path runs past the house north to the tiny village of Gwithian, before rejoining the spectacular coastline. St Ives spreads across the headland to the south but the ocean takes centre stage.

Style/character: 9/10

In contrast to the rugged dunes outside, this modern chalet is perfectly formed and beautifully finished. Minimalist décor complements the clean, limed timber walls and durable white flooring. Powder blue sofas and chairs, kettle and toaster offer some colour. Triple glazed windows, underfloor heating and high spec finishes ensure comfort and calm. Bi-fold doors open the space to the beach and sea. Bedrooms are small and unfussy.

The spotless kitchen, with opaque acrylic splashbacks and Silestone surfaces sweeps from the sitting room in a perfect curve. Doors slide and glide. Design solutions continue outside where an electric awning unfolds at the press of a button.

In contrast to the rugged dunes outside, this modern chalet is perfectly formed and beautifully finished

Facilities: 7/10

The impressive design commands respect for function as well as form; outdoor cupboards for surf boards and beach paraphernalia and two external showers encourage guests to leave the beach outside. The pristine interior suggests shoes should be left at the door. Apart from the open-plan living area, space is limited. Bedrooms and bathrooms are small, the double bunk room is more of a pod than a pad. The house has a small wrap around garden with an enviable dining deck. A bench occupies a small sculptured alcove out of the wind.

Value for money: 6/10

The high quality of the property and unique position are reflected in the price. Ty Bach Twt from £1,395 in low season to £3,195 in high season

Family friendly: 8/10

A fabulous place for a family holiday where children are free to roam. No dogs.

Eating

There are a couple of good beach cafes within a few minutes walk for stunning views and tasty meals. Just across the bay is a good National Trust café and Gwithian has a traditional pub. Nearby resorts of Hayle and St Ives have a number of good eateries. A large Lidl is a short drive away.

This small immaculate chalet, nestling in dunes besides miles of sandy beach, offers plenty for an active family beach holiday